An amazing encounter with some of South Africa’s most majestic beasts

An early start today for an amazing encounter with some of South Africa’s most majestic beasts, the elephants. Addo Elephant National Park is most commonly known for it’s elephants, however a whole array of diverse wildlife can be spotted within the dense valleys of this reserve.

Today’s adventures begin with a careful ride through the grounds of ‘The Big Seven’, followed by a glorious ride through the beautiful countryside, ending up at an old English style cosy cottage amidst the mystical landscape of Hogsback for a curry and cold beer.

Those worms work really well

20km of road until we reach the park gates

After our elephant safari we enjoy an excellent buffet breakfast and head south-easterly on our first 20km of road until we reach the park gates. Bikes are allowed to cut across to get to the other side of the park, which means it’s likely we could bump into any one of “The Big Seven”, which add whales and Great Whites to the famous ‘Big Five’ mix, as the park continues onto the coast. So ride steadily without stopping until we’re out! From there, we head north-easterly for a pleasant ride criss-crossing through the countryside on predominantly easy flowing gravel roads where we enter the magical town of Hogsback. Hogsback really does look like something out of Lord of the Rings with it’s enchanting, ancient forests, spectacular waterfalls and mystical Amathole mountains as far as the eye can see.

The magical land of Hogsback

Just before we arrive in the magical land of Hogsback, we pass a local supermarket and stop off for some snacks and an optional hamburger, soak up the scenery and enjoy a quick chat before heading deep into the wizardly world of Hogsback, or should we say Hogwarts!

Pleasant country roads through the Karoo region

A gardener from Oxford was one of Hogsback’s first settlers.

One of the initial settlers of Hogsback was a gardener from Oxford so there’s a strong ‘English Countryside’ feel with it’s quaint little cottages and selection of beautiful English flowers. If you’re into a spot of gardening, you won’t be disappointed by the bountiful rhododendrons, azaleas, fruit and berry trees which are in full bloom, breathing their alluring fragrance into the air

An evening in the chilly Amathole Mountains’ breeze

Our attractively decorated lodge with it’s relaxed and ambient atmosphere is a perfect end to our adventure-filled day. But what tops it off nicely- an ice cold beer!

In the evening you’ll need to wrap up warm as there’s a definite nip in the air amongst the chilly Amathole Mountains. We recommend that for dinner, you have a taste of one of their delicious curries. They are a big hit with the guests.

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Article by Su Downham Su co-runs Moto Aventures and has been adventure touring in Southern Africa for over nine years. She speaks English, Spanish, Catalan and French fluently and has considerable experience in tourism and PR.
She is responsible for the client services, booking and admin side of the operation and making sure that all aspects of the tours run smoothly and efficiently.
She is a very experienced 4X4 support vehicle driver and is trained in emergency field medicine. Email Su